…By Larry John for TDPel Media.
A Durban woman named Thembelihle Nandi Manda, who had gone missing after hitchhiking to work, has been tragically found dead.
The news was confirmed by Missing Children South Africa, who expressed their condolences to her family and friends.
Family’s Account of Events
According to a family member, Musawenkosi Prince Manda, Thembelihle worked at Brahman Hills Hotel in Mooi River and had left home for work three days prior to her disappearance.
Concern grew when her workplace informed the family that she had not arrived for her shift, prompting the family to raise the alarm and appeal for information about her whereabouts.
Details of Last Known Appearance
Thembelihle was last seen wearing a black chef hat and jeans on Felix Dlamini Road while en route to her job at the hotel in Mooi River.
Due to a lack of transportation, she often relied on hitchhiking to get to work.
Devastating Impact on Family
The deceased woman leaves behind four children, two girls and two boys, with the youngest about to turn two years old in July.
Reports indicate that Thembelihle served as the family’s breadwinner, making the tragedy even more devastating.
Investigation and Community Support
Local authorities, including the Lamontville SAPS, were involved in the search for Thembelihle, and the family expressed gratitude to those who shared her missing person flyer.
The circumstances surrounding her death and any potential suspects or motives remain under investigation.
Mourning the Loss
The community and loved ones mourn the loss of Thembelihle Nandi Manda, whose untimely death has left a void in the lives of her family and friends.